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Understanding sun in your home

New Zealand climates are known for being extreme, we even have the expression “4 seasons in one day”, especially up in Auckland. These climate differences aren’t limited to outside though. Even in our own homes, rooms can vary greatly depending on where they sit in the house.

So what can we put this down too? Simply put, that big burning ball in the sky. Less simply put, our homes directional orientation to the Sun. Whether North, East, West, or South, each exposure has its own distinct temperament. Taking into account a wrath of other factors like local climate, view, terrain, vegetation, street access and noise exist, it’s best to work with these exposures instead of against them when we can.

By doing so, we won’t only reap energy efficiency advantages, we can also use the resulting lights to harness our interiors.

To help you out, we’ve put together a few helpful little points. Here's what you should know about various directional exposures so you can orient a new house the right way on a lot, or deal with the windows you've already been dealt.

For morning sun...Eastern Exposure:

Morning light can be delicate in a space, as long as it’s not shining into a bedroom. Everyone knows what it’s like to have their sleep in thwarted by glaring light beams that somehow only land directly on your eyes. To prevent this we suggest a twin bracket option with ourroller blinds. This way you can experience the best of both worlds, depending on your plans in the morning. If you like to wake up with the sun, why not try one of our automated systems to programme your morning routine.

For afternoon glow...Western Exposure:

The perfect light for your afternoon activities, think baking in the kitchen and homework at the dining table. But be aware, afternoon glare and overheating can be an issue, as well as being flooded with golden overtones (so stay away from oranges and reds). Why not try some of ourSilhouette® Shadingsto provide softly diffused light while still allowing you to see the view.

For soft light all day...Southern Exposure:

Our homes receive minimal sun on the south, so a diffused soft light is received all day long. Although calming, we tend to have issues with heat loss on this side. To combat this, windows should be relatively small and insulated. OurDuette® Architella® Shadesare more than capable of doing the job.

Our personal favourite...Northern Exposure:

To make the most of the sun for warmth and natural light, your home's main living areas (or any rooms you use a lot) should face north. We’re thinking open plan living with connected deck for those late summer BBQ’s. Sun can tend to be harsh here, especially before and after midday. Why not try some of ourLuminette® Privacy Sheers, providing softly diffused light and prevent UV fading, your views can still be maintained. They can even span large doors and windows, perfect for those large french doors and bi-folds.

Want some more help? Chat with one of our localLuxaflex expertswho will be more than happy to give you a hand.